ESD tools: which tweezers, cutters and screwdrivers?
Tools for handling electrostatic discharge sensitive parts must have dissipative handles and must not introduce charge. This guide covers ESD tweezers, side cutters, pliers and screwdrivers and how to select them to DIN EN 61340-5-1.
View ESD toolsWhat must ESD tools fulfil?
Tools for electrostatic discharge sensitive parts (ESDS) must have dissipative handles so that no charge builds up on the tool. On contact the tool must not introduce charge into the part and must not scratch its surface. For sensitive SMD work tools are often also made non-magnetic.
- Dissipative handles drain charge in a controlled way to the grounded hand or mat.
- The tool itself introduces no charge and produces no sparks.
- A non-magnetic design stops small parts sticking to the tool.
- Fine, burr-free tips grip the part without scratching it.
- As EPA equipment, ESD tools belong in the test and grounding plan.
Which ESD tool types are there?
The full range of hand tools is available in a dissipative version for the EPA. Tweezers differ mainly in tip shape, pliers and cutters in head shape and function.
| Tool | Version | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Straight ESD tweezers | dissipative, fine tip | gripping small parts and wires |
| Bent / angled ESD tweezers | dissipative, angled tip | SMD in hard-to-reach spots |
| Flat / wide ESD tweezers | dissipative, broad tip | films, flat parts, ICs |
| ESD side cutter | dissipative handles | flush trimming of wires |
| ESD flat / needle-nose pliers | dissipative handles | bending, holding, positioning |
| ESD screwdriver | dissipative handle | fastening screws in the EPA |
How do you pick the right ESD tool?
Choose by task and part size - and always check the ESD marking. Related guides cover the wider setup:
Frequently asked questions
Why are ordinary tools not enough in the EPA?
Insulating plastic handles can charge up and introduce that charge into the part on contact. ESD tools have dissipative handles that drain charge in a controlled way and so protect the part.
Must ESD tools always be non-magnetic?
Not necessarily, but it is advisable for fine SMD work: non-magnetic tweezers and pliers stop small parts sticking to the tool. Magnetisation is not relevant to the dissipative property itself.
How do I recognise ESD-safe tools?
By the maker's ESD marking and the dissipative handles, usually marked black or yellow. As EPA equipment they should also be listed in the test plan.
ESD tools for the EPA
Tweezers, side cutters, pliers and screwdrivers with dissipative handles - compliant with DIN EN 61340-5-1.
Standard-compliant
Tools to DIN EN 61340-5-1.
Reviewed
Content reviewed by ESD specialists.
Full range
All ESD hand tools from one source.
Expert advice
Personal advice on tool selection.